The craft of bidri is derived from the Persian, Syrian and Iranian handicrafts. The Mughal kings patronized bidri crafts. Craftsmen from Persia came to India under the patronage of the Mughals and settled down in the town of Bidar in Karnataka. The name bidri is derived from the name of the town of Bidar. Bidri was originally used to decorate royal swords and arms. Later domestic items like cigar cases and snuff boxes were also designed by bidri craftsmen.
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